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Mother of four, grandmother of 15

Grace Ella Smith was born Nov 2, 1921 to Clyde Oliver and Florence Jeppson Smith in American Fork, UT. She was their first baby and only daughter. Later, three brothers were born into this family: Merlin, Keith and Kayle.

She had many fond memories of life as a young girl. She was raised on a farm in American Fork and enjoyed taking care of all of the animals and spent a lot of time with family. Her mother had 11 siblings and they gathered together often to eat, sing, and play musical instruments.

She met Garth L Bradford, who at the time was living in American Fork, and their relationship flourished. They were married in Provo, UT. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They made their home in Pleasant Grove, UT for about 16 years and later moved to Blanding where they remained to finish raising their family.

Grace was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in the Relief Society, Young Women’s Program, and served for 30 + years in the primary. She also enjoyed singing in the choir.

Her greatest joy was her family. She spent a lot of her time doing various things with the family.

It would not be unusual to see her on the back of a jet ski with one of her grandsons at Lake Powell. She loved to be wherever her children / grandchildren were.

Every grandchild and every great-grandchild has a quilt sewn with love from their grandmother.

Her legacy will live on with her family forever. Kindness, gentleness, meekness, holiness, patience were all taught by her example.

In the Lord’s tender mercies she passed from this mortal existence on September 28, 2009, in her home of natural causes.

She is survived by her children Lynn (Karen), Tim (Georgene), Dennis (Lisa) and Julie (Calvin) Black. She has 15 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband Garth, her mother and father, and her brother Merlin.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 6, 2009 in the Blanding West LDS Stake Center. Interment is at the Blanding City Cemetery.

Card of thanks

The family of Grace Bradford would like to express their appreciation for the out pouring of love that was demonstrated at the passing of their mother. Thank you for the food, flowers, visits, cards and words of encouragement. For the ward family who took care of food and childcare. A special thank you to Danny Palmer, for the atmosphere that was provided to say our last good- byes. He took such great care and helped us so much.

For all of the dear sweet neighbors Grace had. We appreciate so much the kind acts of service that were offered in our behalf.

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